It’s That Time of the Year – Spring Cleaning!

I know, I know…it’s only the beginning of March but before you know it Spring will be here. That means warmer weather (hopefully), and the sometimes-dreaded Spring cleaning. I love this time of year though, even though the word “cleaning” is involved.

It’s time to open the windows, get some fresh air circulating through the house, and de-clutter! Aside from spreadsheeting everything I possibly can, this comes in at a close second as a favorite thing to do. (Yes, I am totally type-A personality!). From calling in the rug cleaners to window cleaning with vinegar, Spring cleaning has to be well planned and thought out so that your home has the best possible chance of shining. Plus, there’s nothing wrong with getting some help to ensure that you get to the very bottom of every room and every single cleaning space.

You don’t have to go crazy and get it all done in one day; instead break your cleaning up into sections or by rooms, or floors, whatever suits your dwelling best.

I prefer to go room by room. I bring with me the following:

• Big garbage bag: This is for items that are old and shoddy, broken, etc. This applies mainly to the boys’ toys, etc.
• Another big garbage bag: This bag is for donations. I donate all of the old toys, too-small clothing items and books to the local charities. It’s funny how you start cleaning and place a toy in the donation bag, to have your child come in and grab it from the bag stating it is his most-treasured toy and how could I think to give it away? Um, it has been under your bed and not played with for about 6 months…this happens every time. If you have kids, you may want to do their rooms when they are NOT home.
• Paper towels, cleaners and microfiber cloths: Dust off all of the furniture, picture frames, window blinds, everything.
• Notepad and pen: Now is a good time to analyze what needs better organizing…do the Legos have a designated home? Are your scarves taking over the floor of your guest bedroom closet (that would be me)? Jot down what you think you may need to better organize your spaces.

Looking for great organizing baskets and bins? What I usually do is take a trip to my local Container Store to see what they have to offer. I get some cool ideas from there and then head over to Target or WalMart and see if I can find a similar item for a bit less. Homegoods and Pier 1 also have some great deals on baskets, bins, etc.

Although a bit tired, I end up feeling so much more organized and better once I complete my Spring-cleaning. Now, when are you going to start yours????